Junior Project Manager - Marine Construction

About the Opportunity Our client is a specialist marine contractor delivering projects across ports, marinas, and waterfront infrastructure throughout New Zealand.

Manaaki Marine has been engaged to recruit a Junior Project Manager to support project delivery across a growing pipeline of marine works.

This is a hands-on role suited to someone early in their career who wants exposure to real projects—not just spreadsheets and meetings.

The Role You’ll work closely with senior project leaders to help deliver marine construction projects from planning through to completion. Expect a balanced split between office and site, supporting coordination, commercial tracking, and day-to-day delivery on the ground. This role is about building capability quickly—getting across programme, cost, contracts, and operations in a live environment. What You’ll Be Doing:

Project Support & Coordination

• Assist with project planning, scheduling, and reporting
• Track progress against programme, budgets, and milestones
• Support preparation of client reports and documentation

Commercial & Contracts Exposure

• Assist with subcontractor coordination and procurement
• Support progress claims, variations, and cost tracking
• Work within NZ contract frameworks, particularly NZS 3910

Site & Marine Operations

• Spend time on-site supporting project delivery
• Coordinate with crews, subcontractors, and suppliers
• Gain exposure to marine plant, logistics, and operational constraints

HSE & Quality

• Support site safety systems and documentation
• Assist with quality assurance, inspections, and compliance processes

What They’re Looking For

• 2+ years experience in construction, civil, marine, or infrastructure projects
• Background as a Junior PM, Project Engineer, or Quantity Surveyor
• Working knowledge (or exposure) to NZS 3910 contracts
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Comfortable working across both office and site environments

What Will Set You Apart

• Tech-savvy: confident with project systems, reporting tools, and digital workflows
• Practical mindset: willing to get on-site and understand how work is actually delivered
• Curiosity and drive: you’re early in your career and want to learn fast
• Ability to handle moving parts without getting overwhelmed

Why This Role

• Genuine pathway into marine project delivery—a niche, high-demand sector
• Work alongside experienced operators and project leaders
• Exposure to real contracts, real risk, and real delivery, not just theory
• Strong foundation for progression into Project Manager or Senior QS roles

About Manaaki Marine Manaaki Marine is a specialist marine recruitment partner supporting operators across New Zealand with crew and project talent solutions.

We work closely with industry to connect capable people with meaningful opportunities across the maritime sector